New Leader's visit to high-tech Cell and Gene Therapy manufacturing centre in Stevenage

Posted: Friday 24th November 2017

David Williams, on his first official engagement as the new Leader of Hertfordshire County Council, visited the Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult in Stevenage which is a cornerstone of the vision for the UK to be a global leader in the development, delivery and commercialisation of cell and gene therapies.

“It was very valuable to learn first-hand how the Stevenage manufacturing centre will be leading the way in cell and gene therapy – not just in the UK but globally.

“The Catapult will be hosting the employees of commercial partners as well as being the focal point for a highly technical supply chain and specialist logistic support that provide opportunities for further local high-skilled employment growth

“The location of the manufacturing centre on a site adjacent to the Stevenage Bioscience Catalyst and GSK’s Research and Development facility underscores how the Stevenage campus is driving innovation and world leading expertis

Neil Hayes, Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “We welcome David’s collaborative approach to accelerating economic prosperity and growth. I am delighted that he chose to visit the new £55m cell and gene therapy manufacturing centre in Stevenage on his first day as county council leader. The Catapult’s decision to locate its centre here is further proof that we are perfectly placed to attract further inward investment and build on our county’s already significant key strengths.”